JOSE Mourinho would jump at the chance of managing Manchester United should the Old Trafford hierarchy decide he is the man to replace Sir Alex Ferguson.

While he insists he remains totally focused on trying to end Inter Milan’s 54-year European Cup drought, the former Chelsea manager admitted the lure of returning to England with the current Premier League champions would probably be irresistible.

He said: “I would consider going to Manchester Unitedbut United have to consider if they want me to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson.

“If they do, then of course. I like England, where the fans are very passionate and make the game a beautiful occasion with such an incredible atmosphere.”

At 67, Ferguson knows he cannot continue indefinitely, even though he is presently fit and healthy and has no intention of giving up a job he has held for almost 23 years.

United chief executive David Gill knows finding a suitable alternative will be the single most difficult task he will face given the incredible success Ferguson has enjoyed with the Red Devils.

Mourinho’s name has been mentioned fairly frequently since his exit from Chelsea.

The Portuguese coach certainly has the charisma required to take on one of football’s biggest jobs and is unlikely to be overwhelmed by the task of replacing the most successful British manager of all time.